Sun City   

From the empty promise of a mirage to giants that hold their breath whenever the sun is out, to polyandrous raptors, the Sonoran Desert holds many wonders—an extreme environment full of remarkable life. The Arizona Natural History course will introduce students to the geology, flora, fauna, and human history of Arizona. Drawing on information and theories from biology, ecology, geology, and archaeology, the class will explore the adaptations of desert animals, plants, and other life forms, the landscape that set the stage for their evolution, and the human cultures that have called this desert home.

Many birds of the desert-urban interface may be familiar to you, but they are often misidentified and misunderstood. This class focuses on a dozen of our most common species to help you learn more about them. We’ll cover the cactus wren (our state bird!), the whimsical and popular Gambel’s quail, the noisy mockingbird, and the ubiquitous Anna’s hummingbird and mourning dove. We’ll also discuss invasive species such as the city pigeon, European starling, great-tailed grackle, and house sparrow. Discover which bird is a medal-winner, which is a real estate developer, and which appears on the Audubon Watchlist for declining populations.

Come hear the story of a man who has taken many a road off the beaten path both here in Phoenix and all around the world! Featured in USA Today for his motley array of interesting experiences, Mark Gluckman will share with members his insights from traveling the world frugally as well as his work navigating the contemporary gig-economy through his multiple jobs balancing being a freelance photographer, wine consultant, and part-time actor. This seminar-style opportunity will also include time for questions and answers so that you can gain any specific, practical advice that you may be curious about.

Native peoples have given us some of the most renowned military, political, and spiritual leaders ever recorded. Moved by their dedication to protecting their people, traditions, and homelands, this presentation delves into the lesser-known traditional stories and histories of great Indigenous leaders such as Crazy Horse, Geronimo, Sitting Bull, Wilma Mankiller, and the great Chief Joseph. Join Greg Hansen, Tribal Relations Coordinator for the Arizona Conservation Corps, to learn about these celebrated Native women and men through traditional storytelling and be inspired by their unyielding devotion to preserving their traditional lifeways.